Why Is It Important To Massage Your Feet

What is Foot Reflexology ?

Reflexology is an alternative medicine involving application of pressure to the feet and hands with specific thumb, finger, and hand techniques without the use of oil or lotion.

It is based on a system of zones and reflex areas that purportedly reflect an image of the body on the feet and hands, with the premise that such work effects a physical change to the body.

Foot massage dates back to ancient Egypt and China over 5,000 years ago. In the late 1800’s, Europeans invented reflexology: applying pressure to a person’s feet (or hands) in order to affect a physical change to the body. Placement of pressure is based on a system of zones and reflex areas that correspond to other parts of the body.

This mixture of healing is based on the premise that an energy channel encompassing 12 vital organs exists from our feet to the tops of our heads. Applying pressure with hands, the reflexologyst unblocks that channel to restore proper health and organ function.

Since the principles of foot massage are not in alignment with Western science, reflexology did not come to the United States until the 20th century. Since then, it has become popular alternative therapy – due in part to the current holistic medicine trend.

Popular Types of Foot Massage

Chinese

The goal of Chinese massage is to balance one’s qi (energy), allowing the organs and immune system to function properly. Blocked energy pathways cause pain and disease. Practiced for centuries, traditional Chinese foot massages start off with a foot bath and proceed to an intense massage of the feet, ankles, and legs.

The two main types of Chinese massage are both related to acupressure. Tui na is a technique that stretches, kneads, and pushes the muscles, while Zhi Ya focuses on acupressure points, pressing and pinching them to relieve stress and pain. Using sensitive fingertips, a Chinese masseuse identifies blocked pathways and applies pressure in just the right place in to restore proper energy flow and increase the patient’s general health.

Shiatsu (Japanese)

During a Shiatsu (“finger pressure” in Japanese) massage, the masseuse applies pressure to areas in accordance with the Meridian system to release blocked energy and restore proper energy flow.

An imbalanced body causes sickness, disease, and energy loss. A successful massage will restore energy flow and boost your immune system. Therapists use their hands to rub, tap, and squeeze.

This form of massage is particularly helpful for those suffering aches due to repetitive movements such as typing. A Shiatsu massage promotes flexibility, circulation, muscle relaxation, and the release of toxins. It can also prevent disease, reduce blood pressure, and reduce stress.

Swedish

Swedish physiologist Per Henrik Ling (1776-1839) was a pioneer in the field of physical therapy and massage. From his heritage, we get the term “Swedish massage,” which is by far the most popular form of massage today. Based on the Western concepts of anatomy, this type of massage is tailored to the patient. The most popular types of Swedish massage are:

Deep tissue massage: slow movements and deep pressure are used to realign muscles and tissues, release toxins, and improve circulation. Although painful at times, you will feel rejuvenated afterwards. This type of massage is recommended for extremely tense muscles.

Hot stone therapy: in addition to Swedish techniques, smooth, heated stones are placed on the patient’s body in order to sooth muscles, improve circulation, release toxins, and calm the nervous system.

Foot Reflexology Benefits

Think about how much stress your feet go through each day. No body part is more abused than your feet. Standing, running, jumping – our feet do it all! Reflexologysts believe that overall health begins in your feet and travels up. The benefits of foot massage are endless – not to mention it feels downright great! Although there are no “hard facts” to prove what a foot massage can really do, practitioners and patients alike claim that reflexology can:

The benefits aren’t purely physical. A good foot massage can also improve your mental and emotional state. Most of those who seek out a reflexologyst are looking for relaxation and stress relief. With less stress in your life, your chance of heart disease drops considerably.

Foot Reflexology And Diabetes

Diabetes restricts blood flow to the feet, which can cause problems including numbness, tingling, calluses, and foot ulcers. Many diabetics are unable to find relief from these symptoms.

Reflexology can help by improving circulation and reducing the risk of neuropathy. Some patients are so relaxed during a session that that their blood sugar drops. In addition, a proper foot massage will help keep your vital organs in good condition. Make sure to drink plenty of water after each session!

Unfortunately, not everyone is a candidate for foot massage. If you suffer from conditions like athlete’s foot, plantar warts, or osteoporosis you should stay away from foot reflexology.

Reflexology at Home

Unfortunately not everyone has the time or money to regularly visit the spa. Lucky for us, several companies have developed machines we can buy to experience a foot massage in the comfort of our own homes.

Although a machine probably won’t be quite as good as “the real thing,” they are a great investment for you if you have chronic foot problems (such as diabetes symptoms), plan on using the machine daily, or have a busy schedule.